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Start with the biggest thing the bag has to carry. Check your laptop against the actual compartment. For lighter days, choose between a sling that keeps your hands free and a shoulder bag that opens while you wear it.
See 14-inch MacBook and ThinkPad fit examplesMaker pages checked . Selection and fit notes are editorial. How we choose
At a glance
| Piece | Format | Consider it for |
|---|---|---|
| Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase | Briefcase | A laptop and papers in a bag with a hand-carry option. |
| Bleu de Chauffe Éclair M Postman Bag | Messenger | A shoulder bag with a laptop compartment and a top handle. |
| Aer City Pack Pro 2 24L | Backpack | A commute load split between both shoulders. |
| Bellroy Transit Workpack Pro | Backpack | A commute with a laptop and a separate change of clothes. |
| Aer Day Sling 4 Ultra | Sling | A short outing with phone, keys and wallet. |
01 / Briefcase
Filson
Cotton twill body, detachable shoulder strap and a maker-listed fit for laptops up to 15 inches. Source: Filson
Check the fit. Filson gives a screen-size fit. Ask for the usable interior if your laptop is close to the limit.
02 / Messenger
Bleu de Chauffe
The maker lists a 32 × 24 cm felt pocket, with a 36 × 25 × 8 cm main compartment. Source: Bleu de Chauffe
Check the fit. The felt sleeve is smaller than the main compartment. Measure the part you intend to use.
03 / Backpack
Aer
24 L, with a suspended padded laptop pocket that Aer says fits most 16-inch models. Source: Aer
Check the fit. Check the actual device and case dimensions. Aer qualifies its 16-inch claim.
04 / Backpack
Bellroy
Bellroy offers 22 L and 28 L versions of this work backpack. Source: Bellroy
Check the fit. Select the volume first, then confirm the usable laptop opening for your device and case.
05 / Sling
Aer
A crossbody design with a zippered main compartment and a rear pocket. Source: Aer
Check the fit. Check the zipper opening against anything wide or rigid you intend to pack.
A common question
Screen size gives you a starting point. Compare your laptop’s width, depth and thickness with the sleeve or opening dimensions. Include the case if you leave it on.